The Rochambeau Maps, housed in the Library of Congress, make up one of the most important collections of maps of United States heritage. The Rochambeau Collection's 26 printed maps, 40 manuscript maps, and manuscript atlas are all contributions from the French Brigadier General’s personal collection. They cover the northeastern United States before, during, and after the Revolutionary War. The record of military movements and general physical detail within these documents makes this unique set a national treasure and genuine gift.
Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, who already had a celebrated reputation, arrived in America in 1780 to aid the continental army under George Washington. His adept military skills are quite possibly a major reason the continental forces won the Revolutionary War, sealing America’s independence from England. Despite his own rank and distinguished military record, he had immense respect for Washington as a leader, submitting himself and his own force of 5,000 men completely to Washington’s authority. Several of the maps are dated into the 1790’s, this is because even after the war was over, Rochambeau continued to show great interest in the new American nation.
The maps themselves are immaculately detailed and encompass cities, harbors, and countryside in America and Canada. Larger, more comprehensive maps of the original thirteen colonies, as well as the territory of present-day Mississippi, Kentucky, and Louisiana are also a part of the collection.
Rochambeau’s documents truly allow the observer to see our nation through the eyes of a respectful supporter and historical benefactor. A brief reliving of America’s birth through maps of United States with him as your guide will not be a wasted trip.
